Best Laptop Under $500 In 2020

For value-conscious shoppers seeking a capable and reliable laptop without breaking the bank, the under $500 market in 2020 offered a surprising array of options. This review analyzes the best laptops under $500 available in 2020, focusing on performance, features, and overall value.

We’ll explore specific models tailored to different needs, from students to casual users, providing detailed reviews and a side-by-side comparison to help you make an informed decision. Getting the right laptop matters because it's about balancing affordability with the capabilities you need to stay productive and connected.

Shortlist of Top Laptops Under $500 (2020)

Here are a few laptops that delivered exceptional value for money in 2020:

For Students: Lenovo Chromebook Duet.
For General Use: HP Stream 14.
For a Little Extra Power: Acer Aspire 3.

Detailed Reviews

Lenovo Chromebook Duet

The Lenovo Chromebook Duet stands out for its portability and versatility. Its 2-in-1 design, including a detachable keyboard, makes it ideal for students and users on the go. The Chrome OS environment is lightweight and efficient.

Performance is decent for basic tasks like browsing, document editing, and streaming. Battery life is exceptional, often exceeding 10 hours. The screen is bright and clear, making it suitable for extended use.

HP Stream 14

The HP Stream 14 is a solid choice for everyday computing. This laptop is designed for users who need a reliable machine for browsing, email, and light productivity tasks. The affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of users.

While it won't handle demanding applications, it provides a smooth experience for basic tasks. The keyboard is comfortable for typing, and the trackpad is responsive. It's a great option if you need a simple machine.

Acer Aspire 3

The Acer Aspire 3 offers a step up in performance compared to the Chromebook Duet and HP Stream. It provides more processing power for tasks like photo editing or running slightly more demanding applications. This makes it a good fit for users who need some extra muscle.

It boasts a larger screen and more storage capacity. While it may not be a gaming powerhouse, it's capable of handling everyday tasks with ease. This makes it a well-rounded option for general use.

Side-by-Side Specs Table

Laptop	Processor	RAM	Storage	Display	Battery Life (Estimated)	Performance Score (Out of 10)
Lenovo Chromebook Duet	MediaTek Helio P60T	4GB	64GB eMMC	10.1" FHD	10+ hours	7
HP Stream 14	Intel Celeron N4000	4GB	32GB eMMC	14" HD	8 hours	6
Acer Aspire 3	AMD Ryzen 3 3200U	4GB	128GB SSD	15.6" HD	6 hours	8

Practical Considerations

Before making a purchase, carefully consider your specific needs and usage scenarios. If portability and long battery life are priorities, the Lenovo Chromebook Duet is an excellent choice. However, if you need more storage space and a larger screen, the Acer Aspire 3 might be a better fit.

The HP Stream 14 offers a budget-friendly option for basic tasks like browsing and email. Don’t expect high-end performance from any of these devices; manage your expectations accordingly.

Also consider the operating system. Chrome OS is lightweight and secure, but it relies heavily on web-based applications. Windows 10 offers broader software compatibility.

Key Takeaways

The best laptop under $500 in 2020 offered a compelling balance of affordability and functionality. The Lenovo Chromebook Duet excelled in portability, the HP Stream 14 provided basic functionality at a low price, and the Acer Aspire 3 offered a slight performance boost.

Remember to evaluate your individual requirements, considering factors like screen size, storage capacity, and operating system. All three laptops are viable solutions.

Your final choice should be based on your specific use case and how well each laptop aligns with your priorities. Ultimately, informed decision-making is key.

Call to Action

Now that you've explored the best laptops under $500 in 2020, take some time to reflect on your needs. Consider what tasks you'll be performing and prioritize features that are most important to you.

Visit online retailers to check for current pricing and availability. Read user reviews for additional insights before making your final purchase. Happy shopping!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can these laptops run Microsoft Office?

A: The HP Stream 14 and Acer Aspire 3 can run the full version of Microsoft Office. The Lenovo Chromebook Duet can use the web-based version of Office or compatible Google Workspace apps.

Q: Are these laptops suitable for gaming?

A: None of these laptops are designed for serious gaming. They can handle light, browser-based games, but they lack the processing power and dedicated graphics needed for more demanding titles.

Q: How much storage do I really need?

A: If you primarily use cloud-based storage and web applications, 32GB or 64GB may be sufficient. However, if you plan to store a lot of files locally, 128GB or more is recommended.

Q: What are the limitations of Chrome OS?

A: Chrome OS is primarily designed for web-based applications. While it can run some Android apps, it may not be compatible with all Windows or macOS software.